Health centre runs a range of services

The Peninsula Women's Health Centre will run a range of services this year including a regular women's health clinic, alternate therapies, counselling services, group and community education, support, advocacy and access to information and resources on a wide range of women's health issues.

"Our aim is to work alongside and support women of all ages, backgrounds and cultures in a safe, supportive environment," said centre coordinator Ms Katherine Bradfield.

"While we do provide free to low cost services, the centre operates on limited funding and appreciates all donations that assist us to provide a range of women-specific services that improve women and children's lives," said Ms Bradfield.

The women's health clinic is open at the centre on a Wednesday three times a month and is a project in partnership with Central Coast Local Health Service - Women's Health.

The clinic provides free and confidential services including pap smears, pregnancy testing and information, counselling on menopause, hormone replacement therapy, contraception, sexual difficulties, and domestic violence.

Coast Care Counselling is made up of a group of counsellors who provide affordable and readily accessible counselling services to women in need.

A Coast Care counsellor is available by appointment at the centre on Thursdays.

"The centre is also committed to providing local women with access to low cost quality holistic care services including acupuncture and massage," said Ms Bradfield.

A monthly coffee morning for women of all ages and cultural backgrounds will be held on the first Wednesday of the month from 10am.

"This group is ideal for women who are new to the area or for women who would like to get to know other local women.

"We have no childcare for this group. However, women are welcome to bring their children under their own supervision.

"We also have our knitting group Wrap with Love who make wraps for refugees on at the same time as coffee morning.

"For book lovers a book club is held on the second Wednesday of the month at 10am.

"Come along and discuss with other women about your great reads.

"A gentle yoga and relaxation group will be held in February.

"This group is suitable for women who are older or who don't have much movement.

"Also in February a goal setting group called Vision Boards which will encourage your creative spirit and look at what you want to achieve and become.

"A group on living well on a budget incorporating some sustainable living tips will be held in March.

"Woy Woy Women's and Children's Service will be running a domestic violence group for women who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence in May.

"We will also have some inspirational workshops on emotional spring cleaning and information on the chakras," said Ms Bradfield.

For a copy of the program, contact the centre on 4342 5905 or visit www.cccwhc.com.au.

Email, 15 Jan 2013

Katherine Bradfield, Peninsula Women's Health Centre